Statement: 03/29/21: On signing a $400 Billion trade deal with Iran, China is enabling continued terrorism by this hostile regime. Iran supports Hezbollah and Hamas and is conducting a proxy war against Israel, Saudi Arabia and America.
A draft of the agreement purports that "Chinese investments will be made in banking, telecommunications, ports, railways, health care and information technology. In exchange, China would receive a heavily discounted supply of Iranian oil. The draft also called for deepening military cooperation, including joint research and weapons development and intelligence-sharing" (NYT).
According to the Tehran Times, "The document was signed between Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the Iranian Foreign Ministry.
Writing on his Twitter account, Zarif said, “Excellent exchange on expansion of global, regional and bilateral cooperation in the context of our comprehensive strategic partnership, culminated in the signing of a historic 25-year strategic roadmap.”
Iran is widely recognized by the international community as a state sponsor of terrorism. It has been accused of jointly masterminding the attacks on the Jewish community centre and embassy in Argentina. It is the single state sponsor of antisemitism, Holocaust denial and has consistently threatened to destroy Israel.
Over the weekend, China issued a statement banning some Canadian officials from contact with the country. This was in response to Canada's joining of the UK in banning Chinese officials who are allegedly involved with the persecution of the Uyghur. China's move is likely a reaction to rising tensions with the West, including the Biden administration.
The extensive trade deal presents a continued re-alignment of global powers. While many Iranians are longing for freedom and democracy, China is propping up a fundamentalist regime that continues to oppress its own people and make freedom and democracy more difficult to achieve.
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About: Avi Abraham Benlolo has been described as the nation's most prominent and noted expert in Holocaust studies, in countering Antisemitism and promoting human rights. He has dedicated nearly three decades in executive capacities in the Jewish community and as a leading voice in Canada. His academic research, graduate degree, Ph.D. coursework and nearly three decades of professional work has focused on these arenas in addition to peace and security in the Middle East. He has published hundreds of articles in these areas. In recognition of his national and international leadership in this area, he has received numerous awards including an Honorary Doctorate from a prestigious Israeli university for his work in Holocaust studies and combating antisemitism; an Order of Vaughan for his distinguished contribution to anti-racism, equity and diversity; the Queens Diamond Jubilee Award for his contributions to Canada and a race relations award for best practice, based on distinguished service in promoting human rights.
Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the Iranian Foreign Ministry
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